Michigan builds on national Good Food models to strengthen local agriculture and food supply chains – Brownfield Ag News

Michigan Strengthens Local Agriculture and Food Supply Chains through Good Food Initiatives

Introduction

On December 24, 2025, Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced a new program aimed at enhancing local food connections and increasing the procurement of Michigan-grown foods across the state. This initiative aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and responsible consumption and production (SDG 12).

Collaboration with the Center for Good Food Purchasing

Tim Boring, Director of Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted that the Good Food for Michigan project will collaborate with the non-profit Center for Good Food Purchasing. This organization has spent the last decade promoting institutional buying practices that support social and environmental objectives.

Program Objectives and Strategies

The program aims to:

1. Increase procurement of Michigan-originated foods including fruits, vegetables, grains, and meat.
2. Integrate locally grown foods into institutions such as schools, hospitals, and community colleges.
3. Develop systems to address ongoing supply chain challenges.

These objectives support SDG 2 by promoting sustainable agriculture and improving food security, and SDG 3 by contributing to healthier communities through better nutrition.

Economic and Social Impact

According to Tim Boring, the initiative is expected to:

• Boost economic demand and viability for Michigan farms, supporting SDG 8 by fostering decent work and economic growth in the agricultural sector.
• Meet the nutritional needs of Michigan residents, enhancing public health and well-being (SDG 3).

Implementation Framework: Michigan Good Food Charter

The project will implement strategies outlined in the Michigan Good Food Charter, which was developed collaboratively by 150 organizations across agriculture, food, health, education, and government sectors. This charter emphasizes sustainable food systems, equitable access to nutritious food, and environmental stewardship, thereby supporting multiple SDGs including:

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action

Conclusion

Michigan’s Good Food for Michigan project represents a significant step toward sustainable local food systems by leveraging national models and collaborative frameworks. The initiative not only strengthens local agriculture and supply chains but also advances key Sustainable Development Goals by promoting economic growth, health, equity, and environmental sustainability.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • The article focuses on increasing local food production and supply chains, which directly relates to ending hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Emphasis on healthier food options in schools, hospitals, and community colleges supports improved health outcomes.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Increasing economic demand and viability of Michigan farms promotes inclusive economic growth and supports local employment.
4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Promoting local food purchasing and addressing supply chain issues aligns with sustainable consumption and production patterns.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • Target 2.3: By 2030, double the agricultural productivity and incomes of small-scale food producers.
   • Target 2.4: Ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.4: Promote mental health and well-being through healthier food environments.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities and decent job creation.
4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.2: Achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.
   • Target 12.8: Ensure that people have relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Procurement of Michigan-originated foods
   • Indicator: Percentage increase in local food purchasing by institutions such as schools, hospitals, and community colleges.
2. Economic demand and viability of Michigan farms
   • Indicator: Growth in sales revenue or market share of Michigan farms supplying local institutions.
3. Health outcomes related to food consumption
   • Indicator: Improvement in nutritional status or health indicators among populations served by local food programs.
4. Supply chain improvements
   • Indicator: Reduction in supply chain disruptions or increased efficiency in local food distribution systems.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: brownfieldagnews.com